November 12, 2024 – North Cowichan, BC – North Cowichan Council convened on November 6 to discuss critical projects and community updates. Mayor Rob Douglas led the three-hour meeting, addressing recent developments and plans that reflect the Council’s commitment to community welfare and sustainable growth.
Mayor’s Report Celebrates Community Achievements and New MLA Appointment
Mayor Douglas began with heartfelt congratulations to former Councillor Debra Toporowski on her election as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Cowichan Valley. Her departure from the Council will necessitate a by-election, slated for early 2025. Reflecting on recent engagements, Douglas noted that he and Councillor Mike Caljouw attended the Community Safety Expo at the RCMP detachment on Ford Road, an event showcasing emergency resources provided by various agencies.
The Mayor also highlighted his participation in the 2024 State of the Island Economic Summit in Nanaimo. Council members took part in networking sessions, keynote addresses, and discussions on economic resilience and growth across the Island. Additionally, Councillors Bruce Findlay and Tek Manhas joined Douglas on a tour of Promise Valley Farm and Creamery, a small organic farm on Richards Trail, gaining insight into its specialty products like A2 milk, organic yogurt, and milk soap.
Trunk Main Replacement Project to Improve Local Water Infrastructure
North Cowichan’s Senior Manager of Engineering, Jeff Miller, presented plans for a major water trunk main replacement in the Lakes Road/Tzouhalem Road/Boys Road area. The Council discussed the need to replace the aging prestressed concrete cylinder pipes with upsized infrastructure to meet the demands of future population growth. Miller emphasized the project’s importance, noting that Council would review funding options before moving forward with the project.
Workforce Housing Strategy Proposes Actions Amid Mixed Reactions
The draft Cowichan Region Workforce Housing Strategy, presented by Barry O’Riordan of the CVRD and Jada Basi from CitySpaces Consulting, outlined a framework for expanding workforce housing options in the region. Council expressed general support for the plan, which suggests actions to increase housing availability and affordability for local workers. However, they voiced concerns about potential temporary housing solutions, such as modular or RV sites. Mayor Douglas remarked, “While temporary solutions may offer relief, we must consider the long-term impacts on our environment and municipal services.”
The Council agreed to further explore collaboration with regional partners but highlighted the challenges posed by temporary housing, which could strain North Cowichan’s land-use policies and environmental safeguards.
Community Petition Prompts Further Consideration on Child Care Facility Proposal
A petition concerning a proposed childcare facility on Berridge Street in Crofton sparked a lively discussion. The petitioners requested an external traffic study to evaluate the facility’s potential impact on local traffic, citing concerns over safety and congestion. Council agreed to assess the petitioners’ request, demonstrating their attentiveness to community concerns about infrastructure and development.
Temporary Use Permits Enable Ongoing Occupancy for Development Planning
Council granted temporary use permits for two dwellings located at 6493 and 6495 Paddle Road. These permits will allow residents to remain on the properties for up to three more years, facilitating a lot consolidation that will eventually support multi-family development. This decision reflects North Cowichan’s aim to balance immediate housing needs with longer-term planning objectives.
2025 Budget Engagement Initiative Encourages Public Participation
Looking ahead to North Cowichan’s 2025 budget, Council endorsed a comprehensive public engagement initiative designed to foster community involvement in the budgetary process. Three open houses and Committee of the Whole meetings will take place across the region, giving residents an opportunity to learn about project priorities, ask questions, and voice their preferences. These sessions are scheduled for:
- November 26 at Crofton Community Centre
- December 3 at Heritage Hall, Cowichan Community Centre
- December 10 at Chemainus Fire Hall
The Council encourages all residents to attend these meetings, beginning with an open house at 4:30 p.m. followed by a Committee of the Whole meeting at 6:00 p.m., to provide feedback on priorities for the coming year’s budget.
Funding for Emergency Preparedness Programs
Council approved several CVRD applications to the Union of BC Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, aiming to secure up to $600,000 for emergency support services, an emergency operations center, and evacuation planning initiatives. This financial support will enhance the community’s capacity to respond effectively to potential emergencies.
Council Appointments Reflect Transition in Leadership
In light of Toporowski’s new role as MLA, Council appointed Councillor Istace as Acting Mayor. Councillor Caljouw will represent North Cowichan on the CVRD Board, stepping into a crucial role as the region continues to navigate complex issues around growth and infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
Council is set to reconvene on November 20, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole meeting, scheduled for November 12, will address grants-in-aid as Council prepares to finalize the budget for the upcoming year.
For more information on the Council’s initiatives and to engage with the budget process, residents are encouraged to visit ConnectNorthCowichan.ca/budget-2025.
